Nelson has been at the helm of the MLS side for his first season and is hoping to strengthen as he looks to improve on their disappointing 2013 that saw the Canadian outfit finish second-bottom in the Eastern Conference.

"To get a guy like Defoe, one of the most natural goal-scorers I have ever come across, for the MLS… I cannot think of many that are more suited," Nelson said.

"It would be incredible. I call him and text him all the time. Him playing in Toronto would be phenomenal.

"If you look around the world and try and think of a realistic player - and I am not sure how realistic he is - that complements a league like ours, never gets injured, doesn't drink, can play high, low, scores all sorts of goals.

"I think if you ask most Premier League teams, they would take Defoe. [He is] always out training, always trying to score, a great guy."

Burnley ace Danny Ings [GETTY]

“It would be incredible. I call him and text him all the time. Him playing in Toronto would be phenomenal”

Ex Tottenham defender Ryan Nelsen

Spurs are thought to be keeping tabs on Burnley youngster Danny Ings, who has been in fine form in the Championship this term.

The 21-year-old has netted 13 goals for the Lancashire side this season, which has brought him to the attentions of some of the Premier League's biggest clubs.

Spurs are also likely to let young forward Harry Kane move on loan, with Swindon being one of the teams keeping tabs on the situation.